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VANCOUVER – The British Columbia Better Business Bureau is warning people about an online puppy scam that is anything but cute and cuddly.

The consumer watchdog says they have received several calls this year from people who fell victim after answering an online ads where supposedly legitimate breeders offered free puppies.

The Better Business Bureau says the posts on Craigslist and Kijiji promise the "breeder" will send the dogs if the interested pet owner will wire money to cover the cost of air transportation.

A few days after the money is sent, the buyer is contacted again by the scammer, who says they need more money for costs such as vaccinations and travel insurance.

Better Business Bureau spokesman Evan Kelly says a young B.C. mother was recently scammed out of $800 after she was shown some dogs on Skype and told two puppies would be shipped to her from Halifax.

The agency suggests people looking for a furry friend always visit breeders in person, ask for references and research reputable animal shipping companies.

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